Summary
This research aims to harness the newly developed NCEA Trees Outside Woodland (TOW) map to characterise the distribution, density and condition of TOW features across England.
By integrating LiDAR‑derived tree biometrics with allometric models, the project will
- Deliver the first robust national estimate of carbon stocks in TOW
- Assess regional variations in biodiversity value using tree‑related microhabitats
- Identify opportunities for expanding peat‑forming wet woodland as a high‑value carbon sink
Outputs will inform
- Policy on treescape resilience
- Net zero reporting in the UK GHG inventory
- Targeted habitat creation under nature recovery
- Biodiversity net‑gain frameworks
This project has been funded by the UK Government through DEFRA’s Forestry Research and Development programme.
Research Objectives
TOW Condition (WP3)
- What is the distribution of TOW cover by region and habitat?
- Using satellite data and phenological models, to what degree can we describe the condition of TOW features from levels of tree defoliation?
TOW Carbon (WP4)
- What is the most robust approach to calculate national TOW carbon stocks, using existing data available for LiDAR and tree allometric models?
- What is the estimated total carbon stored in living biomass for TOW in England? How is this distributed by region, habitat type and TOW type?
TOW Biodiversity (WP5)
- Are there important inter-regional differences across England in the density, biometrics and surrounding habitat of lone trees as TOW features in rural contexts? What are the implications of any significant differences for ecosystem services delivered by TOW (i.e. habitat, shelter and/or a food resource)?
- What is the ecological value of lone trees in pasture? Can biometric data from the TOW map help to make national-scale predictions?
TOW Priority Habitat (WP6)
- What is the estimated current extent and distribution of peat-forming wet woodland within the TOW map? What are the areas for potential expansion and estimated carbon sequestration value of these habitats?
Funding & Partners
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DEFRA
